Driven by rising demand for customisation, sustainability and performance, the automotive aftermarket is one of the fastest-growing segments of Australia’s manufacturing economy. And Queensland businesses are emerging as key players, backed by regional strengths in innovation, a supportive export ecosystem and a growing reputation for quality.
A custom fit for export
Australia’s auto parts and accessories industry generates close to $5 billion annually, including exports valued at $2.4 billion, and Queensland is firmly in the driver’s seat. In 2024-25 Queensland exported $475 million in auto-related parts and accessories, making it one of the state’s top advanced manufacturing exports.
A surge in demand for vehicle customisation including vinyl wraps, mood lighting, safety enhancements and performance upgrades presents a significant export opportunity. Whether it’s high-end commercial wraps for fleet vehicles, or performance kits designed for off-road capability, Queensland’s automotive innovators are ready to meet the challenge.
Proven export success
Several Queensland companies are already achieving global success with the support of Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ).
The 2025 Queensland Exporter of the Year, PWR Advanced Cooling Technology, has proven that quality and innovation are a proven recipe for success. PWR has supplied its bespoke cooling solutions to the motorsport world for over two decades. It also supplies to the defence industry.
Tough Gear Trading’s Gary Turner and Wesley Turner with Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Middle East Kassem Younes and TIQ’s David Hackett at IDEX International Defence Exhibition and Conference 2025.
Brisbane-based Tough Gear Trading, located in Eagle Farm, has secured more than $12 million in export orders from the Middle East, demonstrating Queensland’s capability in meeting international demand for quality vehicle accessories.
Other success stories include Tuff Group, specialists in manufacturing bullbars and other 4×4 accessories, now established in the United States.
These outcomes are the result of TIQ’s targeted assistance which helps companies navigate new markets, connect with global buyers and scale their operations to meet international demand.
A sector backed by strategy
Queensland’s broader manufacturing sector is also gaining momentum and is a significant economic driver for the Queensland economy. It is currently Queensland's fifth largest industry in terms of economic contribution and eighth largest for employment. [Source: Transforming Queensland’s Manufacturing Strategy 2025-30].
Global demand for aftermarket vehicle accessories is being fuelled by several converging trends:
- Aging vehicle fleets requiring replacement parts and custom upgrades
- Electric vehicle (EV) adoption, opening new demand for lightweight components and interior customisation
- Consumer demand for individuality, particularly in Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North America
- Commercial fleet branding, including vehicle wraps and safety enhancements.
Queensland’s proven strengths in wraps, accessories and automotive design place it in a strong position to meet these needs. With existing companies already servicing national markets, the next frontier is scale: expanding to export-ready operations that target high-value niches abroad.
Driving Queensland’s future
As Queensland’s trade and investment agenda focuses on regional strengths, the car modification and vehicle accessories sector offers a compelling opportunity. The potential to export Queensland’s trademark ingenuity and craftsmanship is real.
If your business operates in this space and is ready to explore international markets, Trade and Investment Queensland can help. From export readiness support to global market introductions and sector-specific advice, we’re here to help Queensland’s innovators go global.
Interested in growing your automotive business internationally? Learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint or a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.
About Trade and Investment Queensland
If your business is ready to unlock global markets, you can learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint or a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.